Top 10 Countries to Visit in 2017!

The year 2017 promises to be an exciting year for travellers. New destinations and frontiers have emerged for travellers to tread the off-beaten paths and enjoy plenty of adventures and experiences of a lifetime. So, what makes the year 2017 an exciting year for travelling? It’s the end of a country’s isolation (Cuba), a political solution to the decades-long civil strife (Colombia) and a country’s reconstruction efforts from a devastating earthquake (Nepal). Mongolia, a vast country sandwiched between two world powers – Russia and China, has plenty of adventures and experiences to offer in 2017. There is also a former pariah state of Myanmar which is now making all the right steps despite its old problems.

Check out the Top 10 countries to travel in 2017!

Cuba

The end of political isolation and opening up of diplomatic relations between Cuba and the USA has finally put the Caribbean country on the world travel map. Cuba remains an enigmatic destination – a tropical heaven caught in the bygone era of jazz, vintage cars, neo-classical hotels and exotic beaches. Revel in the delicious Cuban food and or simply laze on the white sandy beaches; Cuba will remind you of the classic holiday destinations of the mid-60s and is certainly among the hottest destinations of 2017.

Nepal

The devastating earthquake crippled the Himalayan Kingdom and put the entire country to stand still. However, Nepal is back in business after a painstaking process of reconstruction. Contribute to the economy and rebuilding efforts of this country by visiting Nepal in 2017 and support the local culture by embracing homestays. Do some volunteering in this ravaged nation while enjoying the challenging mountain treks in the country that Mount Everest calls home. Do your part in helping the local communities rebuilding their lives with your hard earned money and your support. Nepal is the top adventure destination of 2017.

Colombia

The signing of a historic peace deal between the Colombian government and the communist revolutionary outfit, FARC have finally put an end to one of the world’s longest running civil strife. Colombia is now brimming with a new sense of optimism and the national reconciliation effort is in full swing with Pope Francis due to visit the country in 2017. Don’t just limit yourself to the cosmopolitan capital Bogota in Colombia, instead explore the beautiful cities like Cartagena, Medellin and Cali. Colombia is open for tourism and is ready to showcase the full spectrum of its delights. Colombia is truly one of the most exciting destinations to visit in 2017.

Russia

Be it the US presidential elections or conflicts in Syria and Ukraine, Russia is amongst the most discussed countries in 2016 and it will continue to be so in 2017. A resurgent Russia, despite economic sanctions, continues to dominate world affairs with élan. The country is also the official host of 2018 FIFA World Cup and its cities are in gentrification drive. This is the best time to visit exciting Russian cities like Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kaliningrad, Sochi, etc. However, cities are not the only attraction of Russia. Up north, lies the vast wilderness of Siberia, Lake Baikal, Kamchatka Peninsula and plenty of nature parks and biospheres.

Myanmar

South East Asia’s once pariah country has made an effective transition from military dictatorship to a democratically elected government. However, Myanmar’s problems continue to persist, but the country is making all the right moves for development and integration with the global community. One of the most rewarding destinations in South Asia, Myanmar is all about hidden Buddhist temples, chaotic Asian markets and large-scale grand cities like the capital Naypyidaw. Yangon, Mandalay and Bagan are the main destinations. The offbeat destinations to lure you away include Mrauk U, Inle Lake, Kalaw, among others. Visit Myanmar in 2017, the most interesting Asian destination of 2017.

Iceland

The island of contrast and dramatic beauty, Iceland is certainly the top destination to visit in 2017. Stunning basalt waterfalls, dramatic fjords and glaciers, active volcanoes, hot geysers and minerals-rich hot springs. This is a land inhabited by trolls and elves and almost every landscape feature of Iceland is associated with Nordic folklores and tales. Leave the colourful capital Reykjavik behind and you will be greeted by beautiful meadows with free running wild horses and plenty of dramatic landscapes. A true travellers delight, Iceland is all about getting lost in nature and rediscovering yourself.

Uruguay

The South American country has spent two centuries under the shadows of Brazil and Argentina and is now gaining recognition as a progressive, stable and sophisticated travel destination in Latin America. Uruguay offers plenty of memories like getting caught in gaucho traffic or sipping mate with locals. Montevideo, the cosmopolitan capital is an exciting city with plenty of attractions. Fall in love in picturesque Colonia del Sacramento or party till you drop in Punta des Este, for you are never short of charming moments in Uruguay. This year, discover Uruguay, one of the most sophisticated destinations of 2017 with plenty of style, partying, good food and amazing culture.

Oman

The Sultanate of Oman remains one of the most stable and peaceful countries in the dynamic Middle East region. Surrounded by the Arabian Sea, Oman has retained its culture amidst the commercialization and reconstruction boom of top luxury brand hotels and resorts. Oman is all about luxury stays, delicious Arabic cuisines and unspoilt nature of Hajar Mountains, Musandam Peninsula and ochre coloured deserts of Salalah. Muscat, the capital city is witnessing the addition of new attractions like the US$ 120 million Majarat Oman, a futuristic theme park, scheduled to make its debut in 2017. Oman is among the top countries to visit in 2017.

Mongolia

Sandwiched between Russia and China, Mongolia is opening to tourists like never before. The vast wilderness and unspoilt nature of Mongolia coupled with its legendary hospitality makes it a dream destination for travellers who loves the nature and outdoors. Getting lost in Mongolia is easy but don’t’ worry, you will always get assistance, food and shelter at any nomadic traditional huts. Touristy infrastructures are rudimentary, but the capital, Ulaanbaatar is changing at a rapid pace with a construction boom and new found economic prosperity, creating a drastic contrast with urban and rural centres in the country. Mongolia is among the list of top countries to visit in 2017 of several travel magazines and websites.

Finland

The year 2017 marks a special occasion in Finland – the centenary of Finland’s independence. The occasion has a deep significance in this Scandinavian country’s psyche. Finland was the focal point of a conflict between Russia and Sweden for over 800 years and finally got its independence in 1917. Finnish regions, cities and villages have scheduled events like open-air concerts, community culinary dining, sporting events and travel related exhibitions. The entire country is blessed with wilderness and sheer natural beauty, incorporating world-class cities that are centres of designing, innovation and technologies. Finland is the top European destination to visit in 2017.